Cage Size
Ensure your cage is large enough to comfortably accommodate multiple rats. A multi-level cage is ideal to provide them with plenty of room to explore. Do not house rats in a fish tank or closed-in environment. Keep the cage in a well-ventilated area but away from drafts.
Temperature
Keep the cage out of direct sunlight and drafts. The ideal temperature range is between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit (18-24 degrees Celsius).
Bedding
Use at least 1-2 inches of absorbent bedding like shredded paper or aspen shavings. Avoid cedar and pine shavings as they can irritate your rat’s respiratory system. Replace bedding completely during deep cleaning.
Exercise
Rats are intelligent and playful creatures and need mental and physical stimulation. Provide them with exercise wheels, climbing toys, tunnels, and hammocks. Rats need daily playtime outside their cage in a rat-proofed area.
Interaction
Rats are intelligent and playful creatures and need mental and physical stimulation. Provide them with exercise wheels, climbing toys, tunnels, and hammocks. Rats need daily playtime outside their cage in a rat-proofed area.
Enrichment
Provide ample enrichment like climbing structures, tunnels, and hides to minimize competition and create a stimulating environment. Rotate toys regularly to prevent boredom. Understanding how your rat perceives their environment, from the colors your rat can see to their physical capabilities will help you provide the most enriching items possible.
Chew Toys
Rats’ teeth grow continuously, so provide them with chew toys made from safe materials like pumice or untreated wood to prevent boredom and tooth problems.
Cleaning
- Spot cleaning: Do this daily. Remove soiled bedding, uneaten food, and droppings to minimize odors and prevent bacterial growth.
- Deep cleaning: Do this at least once a week, more often if you have multiple rats. Remove everything from the cage and wash it with warm, soapy water (avoid harsh chemicals). Let everything dry completely before putting it back. While cleaning, provide your rats with a temporary, safe enclosure. Replace bedding completely during deep cleaning. Wash or replace soiled toys and hammocks during deep cleaning.
Remember…
- Never use harsh chemicals when cleaning the cage. These can irritate your rat’s respiratory system.
- Wash your hands! Wash your hands thoroughly after handling your rats or cleaning their cage.